Fall back
phrasal verb
To move back to a previous position or condition.
If the negotiations fail, we have a plan we can fall back on.
Often appears as...
- fall back on plan
- fall back to safety
phrasal verb
To return to a less advanced state, because you are not developing or making progress.
Without constant practice, you easily fall back into your old ways.
Often appears as...
- fall back into old habits
- fall back into addiction
phrasal verb
To rely on something, especially in a difficult situation.
When he lost his job, he had to fall back on his savings.
Often appears as...
- fall back on savings
- fall back on family
phrasal verb
To lose an advantage or make less progress than expected.
She was leading at first, but then she fell back.
Often appears as...
- fall back in race
- fall back in competition
phrasal verb
In military, to withdraw forces.
We had to fall back when the enemy troops advanced.
Often appears as...
- fall back to base
- fall back from enemy frontline
Usage tips
Military
phrasal verb
To move back to a previous position or condition.
If the negotiations fail, we have a plan we can fall back on.
Often appears as...
- fall back on plan
- fall back to safety
phrasal verb
To return to a less advanced state, because you are not developing or making progress.
Without constant practice, you easily fall back into your old ways.
Often appears as...
- fall back into old habits
- fall back into addiction
phrasal verb
To rely on something, especially in a difficult situation.
When he lost his job, he had to fall back on his savings.
Often appears as...
- fall back on savings
- fall back on family
phrasal verb
To lose an advantage or make less progress than expected.
She was leading at first, but then she fell back.
Often appears as...
- fall back in race
- fall back in competition
phrasal verb
In military, to withdraw forces.
We had to fall back when the enemy troops advanced.
Often appears as...
- fall back to base
- fall back from enemy frontline
Usage tips
Military
Definition 1 of 5
Pro Tip 1/2Fallback Strategy
Used when discussing alternatives, like a backup plan.
If our fundraiser isn't successful, we'll fall back on the grant.
Pro Tip 2/2Preparation Importance
Highlights the need for an alternative in case of failure.
The company will fall back to traditional methods if the innovation does not work.
Pro Tip 1/2Fallback Strategy
Used when discussing alternatives, like a backup plan.
If our fundraiser isn't successful, we'll fall back on the grant.
Pro Tip 2/2Preparation Importance
Highlights the need for an alternative in case of failure.
The company will fall back to traditional methods if the innovation does not work.
Pro Tip 1/2Fallback Strategy
Used when discussing alternatives, like a backup plan.
If our fundraiser isn't successful, we'll fall back on the grant.
Pro Tip 2/2Preparation Importance
Highlights the need for an alternative in case of failure.
The company will fall back to traditional methods if the innovation does not work.
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